Perfect Power Wash eliminates destructive algae from local roofs

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When it comes to mitigating algae damage, Gloeocapsa Magma has no greater foe than the team at Perfect Power Wash.

By Bill Yurgen

People love living here in Northeast Ohio. Unfortunately, people aren’t the only ones who enjoy it here.

There is an organism called Gloeocapsa Magma that also likes to put down roots here. Too often, those roots are planted firmly in the roofs of our homes.

You may not know Gloeocapsa Magma by name, but you’ve most likely seen this unwanted nuisance in your neighborhood—especially when the temperature rises. It’s the blue-green algae that creates those unsightly black streaks on roofs. Those black streaks on your roof are the bi-product of an algae that is a type of 3-billion-year-old cyanobacteria that were the originators of oxygen in our atmosphere.  

Ancient as it may be, the damage inflicted on our homes by this menace is significant. Gloeocapsa Magma algae thrive by consuming the very limestone granules that provide color and protection for our roofs.  

According to 3M Research According to a research map created by the 3M Company, Ohio is centered in America’s algae growth belt. Compared to states where Gloeocapsa Magma is less likely to take up residence, our Ohio climate provides the perfect environmental conditions for aggressive algae growth.

The Home Owner’s Protagonist
Mike Palubiak, owner of Perfect Power Wash, knows a thing or two about removing algae (as well as dirt, grime, moss, mold and other contaminants) from roofs, driveways, siding and other areas around the house. 

His company has been doing it successfully for 17 years. So much so that he has contributed to writing guidelines on the subject for the Power Washers of North America, and in the process became an industry expert.

Operating 23 professionally staffed Perfect Power Wash trucks on the road, his team will rid your home of unsightly algae streaking, which is especially important this time of year when algae growth is ready to explode. 

How Algae Does Its Dirty Work
Mike’s broad knowledge of the subject is evident. 

“Algae grows by feeding on the organic material and moisture found inside and in between roof shingles. As it lies there consuming the limestone granules on your roof, algae protects itself from the sun’s ultra violet rays by secreting a dark streak. This is how the blackish streaks that mar the appearance of algae-covered roofs are created.

The algae stain usually begins as a small spot. By the time this little blotch grows into a noticeable streak, the algae will have been present on the roof for several months or longer—making the entire house appear dirty.

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I’ve studied this organism my entire adult life, and I’ve spent the last 17 years treating it all across Northeast Ohio.”

“Aside from being unattractive, algae also costs homeowners money,” he continues.

“By eating the limestone on the shingles, algae compromises the integrity of your roof, shortening its useful lifespan. Since the roof is darker it’s less reflective. This makes the home hotter inside and more energy is required to cool it. The damage caused by algae also makes a roof less effective at protecting the inside of a house from the elements. Worse yet, ugly algae stains reduce the perceived value of a home in the eyes of potential buyers, making it more difficult to get your asking price when you want to sell.”

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People typically are concerned with their roofs but other areas around the house also will become infested by algae as it spreads via airborne spores. Concrete may look “rock solid,” but it’s really a very porous material that resembles an English muffin on the inside. All those moist, cozy little air pockets provide comfortable spots for an algae colony to flourish. Even the tiny crevices of home siding material give algae a place to grow.

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Algae Problem Solved
Fortunately, Perfect Power Wash can remove algae from roofs and all other areas of the home safely, quickly and effectively. The company’s cleaning methods are backed by the science of how and why this organism lives on your roof.

The company’s exclusive Low Pressure Soft Wash Roof Cleaning process kills and neutralizes algae with a thorough application of an environmentally safe algaecide solution. Each application contains a special additive that helps inhibit future algae growth to protect roofs for longer periods. 

Algae and Contaminants Removed From Concrete and Siding
To protect driveways and other concrete surfaces, Perfect Power Wash relies on a three-step process. This begins with an application of a cleaning solution followed by pressure washing. Once the concrete surface is cleaned, a siloxane sealer is applied that shields the concrete from dirt, water and other contaminants while also allowing it to breathe.

Algae is removed from home siding by a three-step process that begins with a thorough application of Perfect Power Wash’s biodegradable cleansers. This is followed by a selective, soft-bristle brush scrub and a fresh water rinse.

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The Right Team For The Job
“We’ve studied the long history and the science of this organism,” says Mike.  

“We’ve seen firsthand the kind of damage it can inflict when left unabated. Look—this is your home; a place where you raise your children and enjoy time with your family. We approach every home as if it was our own, and treat each infestation with the seriousness it deserves. There’s nobody better suited to care for your home.”

To get rid of all the algae on your roof and home now, before damage occurs, call the experienced team at Perfect Power Wash at 330-645-8098 or 440-984-6402, or visit PerfectPowerWash.com.

Categories: Home & Garden